This module will continue to cover the main concepts of anatomy and physiology important in the delivery and understanding of patient care. This will then inform an exploration of body systems, incorporating anatomical structure (i.e., where things are) and physiological processes (I.e., how it works in the context of normal bodily function).

Subjects explored will include an introduction to the following Biological Science based subjects, including an introduction to the pathophysiology of common conditions:

Urinary System – How we regulate absorption and excretion of substances via the kidneys, to maintain homoeostasis.
Reproductive Systems – This will include an understanding of basic anatomy as well as an examination of the processes behind pregnancy including physiological changes. We will also discuss an overview of genetics.
Introduction to pharmacology and therapeutic intervention.
Lymphatic System & Immunity – How the body defends itself against invading pathogens.
Skin & Thermoregulation – How the body regulates temperature control, salt, and water content, in the context of maintaining a healthy homoeostatic balance.
Introduction to pathophysiology, pharmacology, and therapeutic intervention.

Skills based subjects:

Medicines management and legislation.
Pain management.
Safe drug administration.
Basic ECG recognition and 3 lead ECG monitoring.

Basic Life support (Adult and Paediatric).
Intermediate Life Support. Including theory and Practice.

History taking models - how do we structure a patient interview and why?

Recognition of the critically unwell patient.
Introduction to pregnancy and the stages of labour.
Assisting the Paramedic.
Standards of conduct, performance, and ethics.

Note:

This module runs in conjunction with Foundations of Clinical Assessment in Paramedic Practice.

Students will draw from the Communication and Professional Development module to inform the patient assessment, whilst utilising knowledge of biomedical sciences to form judgements and differential diagnosis.

1. Basic Life Support OSCE (LO 4)

Students will demonstrate safe and effective Basic Life Support in accordance with the UK Resus Council BLS algorithm. This is a pass or fail assessment.

2. Multiple Choice Question and Short answer examination, based on Human Biology and the assessment and management of a range of conditions. (Learning Outcomes 1 and 2).

3. History-Taking Assessment (LO 3)

Students will be required to demonstrate knowledge and application of appropriate history taking to inform an assessment and management strategy.

All assessments must be passed to achieve an overall pass for the module.

Learning will consist of technical skills, lead lectures, debates, seminars, and pre-recorded content. This will be supplemented by online study materials, clinical simulation, and peer review.

Online materials will be used to introduce subject areas and will be delivered through the university’s virtual learning environment (VLE). This will then be built upon through lead lectures.

Incorporated into these will be tasks and activities, which will help to form the basis of face-to-face tutorial sessions to reinforce your learning.

Specialist guest lectures, service users and carers will also be included to give students an in-depth professional and personal experience of key subject areas.

You will also be expected to undertake your own self-study on this module, comprising approximately 140 hours. You will have guidance on which issues and areas to look at, but this study is designed to help expand your knowledge and appreciation for the key subject matters, and to allow you time to work on and develop your assignment.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles of patient assessment and management including pharmacology and therapeutic interventions appropriate to paramedic practice.

University Learning Outcome: Knowledge and Understanding.

2. Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of drug administration relevant to paramedic practice.

University Learning Outcome: Knowledge, Understanding and Application.

3. Demonstrate the ability to gather patient information in a safe and appropriate manner.

University Learning Outcome: Knowledge and Understanding, Application.

4. Demonstrate safe and appropriate performance of basic life support in response to a patient in cardiac arrest.

University Learning Outcome: Knowledge and Understanding. Application, Problem Solving.

Clinical skills sessions
Simulation
VLE (Virtual Learning Environments)
Classroom
Library support
Academic Mentor support
Group tutorials
Lectures
Seminars

Blaber, A. and Harris, G. (2012) Assessment Skills for Paramedics, Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill Education.

Kusumoto, F. (2011), ECG Interpretation for Everyone, Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

McFadden, R. (2019), Introducing Pharmacology for nursing and Healthcare, 3rd edn, Oxon: Routledge.

Scott, W. (2012) Pathophysiology made incredibly easy!, London: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Waugh, A. and Grant, A. (2018), Ross & Wilson Anatomy and Physiology in Health and Illness, 13th edn, UK: Elsevier.

Enrolled on BSc (Hons) of Science in Paramedic Science.

This module introduces you to the theory and skills of electronic cardiogram (ECG) interpretation, pain management and drug administration, in the pre-hospital setting. This in conjunction with Introduction to Foundations of Clinical Assessment in Paramedic Practice, will develop your knowledge, understanding and skills to assist Paramedics in practice placement assess, treat and manage a wide range of patients.